MARTIAL ARTS & SPIRITUALISM: A PERSONAL TESTIMONY WITH BIBLE AND SPIRIT OF PROPHECY RESEARCH BY JOHN ROBERT COFER

Dear Reader,

I spent many years of my life in the pursuit of Health and Occult Power through a system of mystic war disciplines known in the western world as martial arts. The origins, meanings and purposes of these esoteric motions and strikes - and the deep religious teachings and philosophies that inseparably accompany them are mysterious at best. Until my careful study of the history and origin of these fighting systems in light of the Holy Bible – I was a devoted exponent of these practices. My prayer is that this document will stimulate thought concerning your relationship to the Creator and Author of the Holy Bible and His plan for your life. I trust that the evidences of scripture presented here will challenge your heart and mind as it did mine and still does today.

jrc

My Testimony

(with added scriptural emphasis)

But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. 2 Timothy 3:13

I like many other Martial Artists was being deceived subtily by a power which was more that Human. I was being controlled slowly as I yielded my self to this “inner power”. What was this deceptive power?

And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. Revelation 12:9

For such [are] false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore [it is] no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works. 2 Corinthians 11:13-15

As I began to try and follow Jesus and read his Word a fierce struggle began in my life. Bouts with depression would assail me as I attempted to open heart to God and know Him personally. The mystic exercises that had become a part of my life seem impossible to break free from. Demonic Forces challenged me at every step. Only Christ Himself could have freed me from the chains of bondage that controlled me.

As I read the Bible an ever deepening conviction took hold of me making me examine my life with the principles of Christ and His spiritual kingdom:

The LORD [is] in his holy temple, the LORD'S throne [is] in heaven: his eyes behold, his eyelids try, the children of men. The LORD trieth the righteous: but the wicked and him that loveth violence his soul hateth. Ps 11:4,5

To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, [it is] because [there is] no light in them. ISAIAH 8:20

Many have a sincere interest in better health and disease prevention, as I did in my introduction to these Eastern Practices. This is a great means Satan now uses to lure many innocent souls into New Age Satanic exercises and doctrines.

The apostles of nearly all forms of spiritism claim to have the power to cure the diseased. They attribute their power to ELECTRICITY, MAGNETISM, THE SO-CALLED "SYMPATHETIC REMEDIES," OR TO LATENT FORCES WITHIN THE MIND OF MAN. And there are not a few, even in this Christian age, who go to these healers, instead of trusting in the power of the living God and the skill of well-qualified Christian physicians. {Ev 606.2}

These Satanic agents claim to cure disease. They attribute their power to electricity, magnetism, or the so-called "sympathetic remedies," while in truth they are but CHANNELS FOR SATAN'S ELECTRIC CURRENTS. By this means he casts his spell over the bodies and souls of men.--Signs of the Times, March 24, 1887. {Ev 609.1}

Note: a Pseudo- Science based upon the electrical nature (Chi Gong, Ki, Internal Energy) of the body, brain and Brain nerves are the springboard for a myriad of false concepts on the body and healing – which new age promotes in direct opposition to the Word of God and True Science.

Bible reveals the truth about Miracles and Doctrines of Spiritualism that War against Truth

2 Tim 3:8 Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith.

3:9 But they shall proceed no further: for their folly shall be manifest unto all [men], as theirs also was.

1 Tim 4:1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;

Genesis 3:1 Now the serpent was more subtle than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?

Genesis 3:4-5 And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.

Main Tenants of Spiritualism: Doctrine of Devils Manifested

I. Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?

To Reason or Question plain revelation of God’s Word – Authority of God

II. Ye shall not surely die
Consciousness in Death - Supposed Immortality of the Soul (Reincarnation, Soul-migration, Soul Travel)

III. For God doth know

Access to Divine Knowledge (hidden from man) by partaking of sin or while in transgression of God’s Law

IV. your eyes shall be opened

Elevation of consciousness, knowledge, by acquiring this hidden (occult) knowledge

V. ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil

Attaining Divinity by Transgression and Occult Wisdom(Yin and Yang)

Satan beguiles men as now he beguiled Eve in Eden, by flattery, by kindling a desire to obtain forbidden knowledge, by exciting ambition for self-exaltation. It was cherishing these evils that caused his fall, and through them he aims to compass the ruin of men. "Ye shall be as gods," he declares, "knowing good and evil" (Genesis 3:5). Spiritualism teaches "that man is the creature of progression; that it is his destiny from his birth to progress, even to eternity, toward the Godhead," And again: "Each mind will judge itself and not another." "The judgment will be right, because it is the judgment of self.... The throne is within you." Said a Spiritualistic teacher, as the "spiritual consciousness" awoke within him, "My fellowmen, all were unfallen demigods." And another declares, "Any just and perfect being is Christ." {2MCP 722.2}

Thus, in place of the righteousness and perfection of the infinite God, the true object of adoration; in place of the perfect righteousness of His law, the true standard of human attainment, Satan has substituted the sinful, erring nature of man himself as the only object of adoration, the only rule of judgment, or standard of character. This is progress, not upward but downward.--GC 554, 555 (1911). {2MCP 723.1}

Occult Influences among God’s People in the Last Days

Isa 2:6 Therefore thou hast forsaken thy people the house of Jacob, because they be replenished from the east, and [are] soothsayers like the Philistines, and they please themselves in the children of strangers.

Eph 2:2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:

Note: eastern (teachings?) influence Gods people – spirit of Lucifer works in them

Ministers will Gradually embrace Spiritualism

Numbers 24:1 And when Balaam saw that it pleased the LORD to bless Israel, he went not, as at other times, to seek for enchantments, but he set his face toward the wilderness.

24:2 And Balaam lifted up his eyes, and he saw Israel abiding [in his tents] according to their tribes; and the spirit of God came upon him.

24:3 And he took up his parable, and said, Balaam the son of Beor hath said, and the man whose eyes are open hath said:

24:4 He hath said, which heard the words of God, which saw the vision of the Almighty, falling [into a trance], but having his eyes open:

24:15 And he took up his parable, and said, Balaam the son of Beor hath said, and the man whose eyes are open hath said:

24:16 He hath said, which heard the words of God, and knew the knowledge of the most High, [which] saw the vision of the Almighty, falling [into a trance], but having his eyes open:

Joshua 13:22 Balaam also the son of Beor, the soothsayer, did the children of Israel slay with the sword among them that were slain by them.

1 Corinthians 10:11 Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.

Note: Paul says that what happened anciently to Israel/God’s People (Even Balaam, who was a true prophet that was seduced by Satan and died a Spiritualist/Soothsayer) will be repeated and is an example for Spiritual Israel at the End of time.

13 And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs [come] out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet. REVELATION 16:13

14 For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles, [which] go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty. REVELATION 16:14

Note: Satan’s Universal Movement to deceive world leaders and people by demonic miracle working power just before Christ’s Return!

Note: Miracle working power gathers wicked to battle (against God). Is the World currently embracing UNIVERSALLY recognized spiritualistic practices or teachings which would put them in opposition to God and His Holy Word?

Martial Arts: a form of Spiritism and Occult Practice

...from SPIRITUALIST to SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST

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Stylized Warfare Exercise – Art of War - Practice of Warfare

2 Cor 10:3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:

10:4 (For the weapons of our warfare [are] not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)

10:5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

Note: Our weapons are spiritual not carnal/physical to the extent of the subjection of our mind and thoughts to God (not against another man). Not using “Devil’s methods” to fight our battles.

Eph 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high [places].

What is the principle of Self-Defense from a Spiritual Standpoint?

Defending, protecting that which God says should die, be humbled in the dust.

Matt 5:9 Blessed [are] the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.

Ps 11:4 The LORD [is] in his holy temple, the LORD'S throne [is] in heaven: his eyes behold, his eyelids try, the children of men.

11:5 The LORD trieth the righteous: but the wicked and him that loveth violence his soul hateth.

Luke 3:14 And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse [any] falsely; and be content with your wages.

Martial Art exercises are the same practices called in the Holy Bible; Sorcery, Enchantments, which individuals begin training in from youth. God pronounces a terrible end to these practitioners of false worship.

Isa 47:12 Stand now with thine enchantments, and with the multitude of thy sorceries, wherein thou hast laboured from thy youth; if so be thou shalt be able to profit, if so be thou mayest prevail.

47:13 Thou art wearied in the multitude of thy counsels. Let now the astrologers, the stargazers, the monthly prognosticators, stand up, and save thee from [these things] that shall come upon thee.

47:14 Behold, they shall be as stubble; the fire shall burn them; they shall not deliver themselves from the power of the flame: [there shall] not [be] a coal to warm at, [nor] fire to sit before it.

Rev 14:8 And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.

14:9 And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive [his] mark in his forehead, or in his hand,

14:10 The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb:

14:11 And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.

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Yoga, Martial Arts, Meditation

Meditation - Do Christians Meditate?

Genesis 24:63 And Isaac went out to meditate in the field at the eventide: and he lifted up his eyes, and saw, and, behold, the camels [were] coming.

Joshua 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shaltmeditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

Psalms 1:1 Blessed [is] the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

1:2 But his delight [is] in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.

Note: Eastern Meditation is a counterfeit system of Biblical Meditation on the Words and Works of God. Eastern Meditation cultivates ability to concentrate the mind on sounds or mystic poems to the exclusion of all other thoughts. This essentially blocks the working of the Holy Spirit on the mind and heart – allowing only the mystic and occult to be contemplated.

Occult Meditation is taught as a form of Self Hypnosis or conducted in groups as a Mind control exercise of Instructor (Guru) over Students.

In these days when skepticism and infidelity so often appear in a scientific garb, we need to be guarded on every hand. Through this means our great adversary is deceiving thousands and leading them captive according to his will. The advantage he takes of the sciences, sciences which pertain to the human mind, is tremendous. Here, serpentlike, he imperceptibly creeps in to corrupt the work of God. {2MCP 711.1}

This entering in of Satan through the sciences is well devised. Through the channel of phrenology, psychology and mesmerism, he comes more directly to the people of this generation and works with that power which is to characterize his efforts near the close of probation. The minds of thousands have thus been poisoned and led into infidelity. {2MCP 711.2}

While it is believed that one human mind so wonderfully affects another, Satan, who is ready to press every advantage, insinuates himself and works on the right hand and on the left. And while those who are devoted to these sciences laud them to the heavens because of the great and good works which they affirm are wrought by them, they little know what a power for evil they are cherishing; but it is a power which will yet work with all signs and lying wonders--with all deceivableness of unrighteousness. Mark the influence of these sciences, dear reader, for the conflict between Christ and Satan is not yet ended.... {2MCP 711.3}

Neglect of prayer leads men to rely on their own strength and opens the door to temptation. In many cases the imagination is captivated by scientific research, and men are flattered through the consciousness of their own powers. The sciences which treat of the human mind are very much exalted. They are good in their place, but they are seized upon by Satan as his powerful agents to deceive and destroy souls. His arts are accepted as from heaven, and he thus receives the worship which suits him well. The world, which is supposed to be benefited so much by phrenology and animal magnetism, never was so corrupt as now. Through these sciences, virtue is destroyed and the foundations of spiritualism are laid.--ST, Nov 6, 1884. (2SM 351-353.) {2MCP 712.1}

Note: These false mind sciences lay the foundation for a mind control higher than the Guru or Instructor himself : Demon Possession

The theory of mind controlling mind was originated by Satan to introduce himself as the chief worker, to put human philosophy where divine philosophy should be. Of all the errors that are finding acceptance among professedly Christian people, none is a more dangerous deception, none more certain to separate man from God, than is this. Innocent though it may appear, if exercised upon patients, it will tend to their destruction, not to their restoration. It opens a door through which Satan will enter to take possession both of the mind that is given up to be controlled by another and of the mind that controls.--MH 243 (1905). {2MCP 712.2}

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Fighting and the Destruction of the Body Temple

I Cor 3:16 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and [that] the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?

3:17 If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which [temple] ye are.

Note: Deadening of the hands, knuckles and nerves along the forearm, shins etc. are just a few of the Martial Art practices that destroy the temple of God.

ANIMAL WORSHIP AND IDOLATRY

Occult Secrets of Martial Arts EXPOSED

SATAN'S CHARACTER REPRESENTED IN BIBLE BY SAME BEASTS OF PREY WORSHIPED IN MARTIAL ARTS (FIVE SHAOLIN ANIMAL ARTS)

TIGER

DRAGON

CRANE

LEOPARD

SNAKE

NOTE: MARTIAL ARTISTS ARE TOLD TO DEVELOP THE SPIRIT OR CHARACTER AND QUALITIES OF THESE ANIMALS.

If the thoughts are wrong the feelings will be wrong, and the thoughts and feelings combined make up the moral character. 5T 310

Have not the playing of games, and rewards, and the using of the boxing glove been educating and training after Satan's direction to lead to the possession of his attributes? 1 SM 132

Note: The Moral Character is formed by the influence of these exercises and the concentration on developing the attributes of Animal qualities. Satan’s Character is formed not Christ.

Romans 1:21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified [him] not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

1:22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,

1:23 And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to BIRDS, AND FOURFOOTED BEASTS, AND CREEPING THINGS.

In this Mystic Dance (Martial Arts) Four Footed beast and Birds are Mimicked and their “temperaments” cultivated to supposedly develop their “hidden inner power” and harmonize the forces of nature.

Psalms 115:8 They that make them are like unto them; [so is] every one that trusteth in them.

Note: Whether an animal Idol is created and worshiped or the animal postures, attitudes or striking stances are assumed -- it is all Occult worship. In the end those that make them and trust in them (esoteric exercises based upon animal worship) become like them…a medium for demonic power - possessed as the serpent was in Eden.

The Apostle Paul witnessed these mystery systems in their varied forms in his travels across Asia Minor. He wrote to the Corinthian church unveiling the true nature of these religious ceremonies

1 Corinthians 10:20 But I [say], that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils.

Martial Arts (its practice and viewing via mainstream media) a doorway to Satanic Influences

1 Tim 4:1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;

There are many who shrink with horror from the thought of consulting spirit mediums, but who are attracted by more pleasing forms of spiritism, such as the Emmanuel movement. Still others are led astray by the teachings of Christian Science, and by the mysticism of theosophy and other Oriental religions. {Ev 606.1}

Demon Possession

Luke 8:26 And they arrived at the country of the Gadarenes, which is over against Galilee.

8:27 And when he went forth to land, there met him out of the city a certain man, which had devils long time, and ware no clothes, neither abode in [any] house, but in the tombs.

Mark 5:5 And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones.

Note: In the aforementioned passages the manifest signs of demon possession are seen in their most striking form. These symptoms begin many times in a mild way when a life of sin begins to yield more and more fully the will and mind to demonic forces:

SPECIFIC AREAS

- Greater propensity toward nudity and uncovering /exposing the body

- Fascination and/or cold indifference toward death, violence - grave

- Isolation

- Self Destructive behavior

Note: The violent struggle seen in the demoniacs of the New Testament is not representative of those cases where one willingly yields their mind to a “Greater Power” other than Jesus Christ. The following statements discuss this:

Those possessed with devils are usually represented as being in a condition of great suffering; yet there were exceptions to this rule. For the sake of obtaining supernatural power, some welcomed the satanic influence. These of course had no conflict with the demons. Of this class were those who possessed the spirit of divination,--Simon Magus, Elymas the sorcerer, and the damsel who followed Paul and Silas at Philippi. GC 516

So long as we are ignorant of their wiles, they have almost inconceivable advantage; many give heed to their suggestions while they suppose themselves to be following the dictates of their own wisdom. GC 516

And it is because Satan can most readily control the minds of those who are unconscious of his influence, that the word of God gives us so many examples of his malignant work, unveiling before us his secret forces, and thus placing us on our guard against his assaults. GC 517

Fearful is the condition of those who resist the divine claims and yield to Satan's temptations, until God gives them up to the control of evil spirits. But those who follow Christ are ever safe under His watchcare. Angels that excel in strength are sent from heaven to protect them. The wicked one cannot break through the guard which God has stationed about His people. GC 517

Truth, present truth, is all that the word of God represents it to be. The Lord would have his people keep themselves from all superfluities, from all that tends to mysticism. Let those who are tempted to indulge in fanciful, imaginary doctrines sink the shaft deep into the quarries of heavenly truth, and secure the treasure that means life eternal to the receiver. In the word there are the most precious truths. These will be found by those who study with earnestness; for heavenly angels will direct the search. SW, April 4, 1905 par. 7

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Belief in Inherent Power (i.e. Ki, Chi, Qi-Gong, Internal Energy, E.S.P.)

If Satan can so befog and deceive the human mind as to lead mortals to think that there isan inherent power in themselves to accomplish great and good works, they cease to rely upon God to do for them that which they think there is power in themselves to do. They acknowledge not a superior power. They give not God the glory which He claims, and which is due to His great and excellent Majesty. Satan's object is thus accomplished, and he exults that fallen men presumptuously exalt themselves. --1T 294 (1862). {2MCP 722.1}

But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.
2 Timothy 3:13

Note: Many think themselves developing a hidden inner power and channeling the force of nature when in fact they are systematically yielding control to demonic forces that for the sake of securing your confidence in these exercises perform miraculous feats of strength and occult power through them. The deceptive power of these Fallen Angel are almost invincible save for the unchallengeable victory that is in Christ!

Luke 3:10 And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then?

Totally Divorce yourself from all remnants of Occult practice/Knowlege

“And many that believed came, and confessed, and showed their deeds.

Many of them also which used CURIOUS ARTS brought their books together, and burned them before all [men]:…….So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.”Acts 19:18-20

“When the Ephesians were converted, they changed their habits and practices. Under the conviction of the Spirit of God, they acted with promptness, and laid bare all the mysteries of their witchcraft. They came and confessed, and showed their deeds, and their souls were filled with holy indignation because they had given such devotion to magic, and had so highly prized the books in which the rules of Satan's devising had laid down the methods whereby they might practice witchcraft. They were determined to turn from the service of the evil one, and they brought their costly volumes and publicly burned them. Thus they made manifest their sincerity in turning to God. The books the Ephesians committed to the flames on their conversion to the gospel, they formerly delighted in, and permitted them to rule their consciences and guide their minds. They might have sold them, but by so doing the evil would be perpetuated. They afterward abhorred the satanic mysteries, the magical arts, and regarded with aversion the knowledge they had obtained from them. I would ask the young who have been connected with the truth, Have you burned your magical books? MYP 275

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Didn’t the Children of Israel Fight?

If they had obeyed God’s Voice He would have fought for them

Ex 23:20 Behold, I send an Angel before thee, to keep thee in the way, and to bring thee into the place which I have prepared.

23:21 Beware of him, and obey his voice, provoke him not; for he will not pardon your transgressions: for my name [is] in him.

23:22 But if thou shalt indeed obey his voice, and do all that I speak; then I will be an enemy unto thine enemies, and an adversary unto thine adversaries.

23:23 For mine Angel shall go before thee, and bring thee in unto the Amorites, and the Hittites, and the Perizzites, and the Canaanites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites: and I will cut them off.

23:24 Thou shalt not bow down to their gods, nor serve them, nor do after their works: but thou shalt utterly overthrow them, and quite break down their images.

23:25 And ye shall serve the LORD your God, and he shall bless thy bread, and thy water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of thee.

23:26 There shall nothing cast their young, nor be barren, in thy land: the number of thy days I will fulfil.

23:27 I will send my fear before thee, and will destroy all the people to whom thou shalt come, and I will make all thine enemies turn their backs unto thee.

23:28 And I will send hornets before thee, which shall drive out the Hivite, the Canaanite, and the Hittite, from before thee.

Note: Just like The City of Jericho, God would have prevailed and fought for them.

Every nation that was “cut-off” had reached the limit of divine forberence. The time of probation which God allotted them to repent had come to an end and the nation of Israel was to execute judgement on these nations. (See Gen 15:16 - Prophecy of future Amorite Judgement for iniquity)

Was not Moses a Martial Artist?

Moses had been learning much that he must unlearn. The influences that had surrounded him in Egypt--the love of his foster mother, his own high position as the king's grandson, the dissipation on every hand, the refinement, the subtlety, and the mysticism of a false religion, the splendor of idolatrous worship, the solemn grandeur of architecture and sculpture--all had left deep impressions upon his developing mind and had molded, to some extent, his habits and character. Time, change of surroundings, and communion with God could remove these impressions. It would require on the part of Moses himself a struggle as for life to renounce error and accept truth, but God would be his helper when the conflict should be too severe for human strength. PP 248

Christ Call to Arms?

Did Christ Change his Commission?

Luke 22:35 And he said unto them, When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye any thing? And they said, Nothing.

22:36 Then said he unto them, But now, he that hath a purse, let him take [it], and likewise [his] scrip: and he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one.

22:37 For I say unto you, that this that is written must yet be accomplished in me, And he was reckoned among the transgressors: for the things concerning me have an end.

22:38 And they said, Lord, behold, here [are] two swords. And he said unto them, It is enough.

Did Christ Trust in the Power of the Sword or of God?

Matt 26:52 Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword.

26:53 Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?

26:54 But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be?

Salvation according to the Greatest Prophet

Luke 3:7 Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?

3:8 Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to [our] father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.

3:9 And now also the ax is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.

3:10 And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then?

3:11 He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise.

3:12 Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do?

3:13 And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you.

3:14 And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse [any] falsely; and be content with your wages.

Baal Worship and the Worship of God compared (SUPPLEMENT)

Vain Repetitions and Leaping (bodily exercises)

1 Kings 18:26 And they took the bullock which was given them, and they dressed [it], and called on the name of Baal from morning even until noon, saying, O Baal, hear us. But [there was] no voice, nor any that answered. And they leaped upon the altar which was made.

Note of Gods Way: Matt 6:7 But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen [do]: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.

Shouting, Frenzy and Violence

1 Kings 18:28 And they cried aloud, and cut themselves after their manner with knives and lancets, till the blood gushed out upon them.

18:29 And it came to pass, when midday was past, and they prophesied until the [time] of the offering of the [evening] sacrifice, that [there was] neither voice, nor any to answer, nor any that regarded.

Note of Gods Way: John 4:22 Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews.

4:23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.

4:24 God [is] a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship [him] in spirit and in truth.

Loud Music, Singing, Shouting and dancing easily confused for Strife

Exodus 32:17 And when Joshua heard the noise of the people as they shouted, he said unto Moses, [There is] a noise of war in the camp.

32:18 And he said, [It is] not the voice of [them that] shout for mastery, neither [is it] the voice of [them that] cry for being overcome: [but] the noise of [them that] sing do I hear.

32:19 And it came to pass, as soon as he came nigh unto the camp, that he saw the calf, and the dancing: and Moses' anger waxed hot, and he cast the tables out of his hands, and brake them beneath the mount.

Ex 32:25 And when Moses saw that the people [were] naked*; (for Aaron had made them naked* unto [their] shame among their enemies:)

*Note: This word naked means to lose restraint or inhibitions (reserve)

Simple Prayer and Obedience to Gods Word

1 Kings 18:36 And it came to pass at [the time of] the offering of the [evening] sacrifice, that Elijah the prophet came near, and said, LORD God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that thou [art] God in Israel, and [that] I [am] thy servant, and [that] I have done all these things at thy word.

18:37 Hear me, O LORD, hear me, that this people may know that thou [art] the LORD God, and [that] thou hast turned their heart back again.

18:38 Then the fire of the LORD fell, and consumed the burnt sacrifice, and the wood, and the stones, and the dust, and licked up the water that [was] in the trench.

Book Abbreviations for Spirit of Prophecy Quotations

EV - Evangelism

GC – The Great Controversy

MH – Ministry of Healing

MYP – Messages to Young People

PP – Patriarchs and Prophets

SW – Southern Watchman

2MCP – Mind Character and Personality (Book 2)

1SM – Selected Messages Book One

1T - Testimonies to the Church Volume 1

5T - Testimonies to the Church Volume 5

Courtesy of The Gospel of Health